Description
Overview of role:
A key focus of this role is leading a major water treatment infrastructure program that is integral to Coliban Water's core water supply system. The Bendigo, Castlemaine and Kyneton Water Treatment Plants supply treated water to approximately 80% of Coliban Water's urban customers, making this program critical to the reliability, safety and long-term sustainability of water services across the region.
You will be responsible for the development of technically viable and economically sound Masterplans for upgrades to the Bendigo, Castlemaine and Kyneton Water Treatment Plants and associated systems. This includes overseeing the development and assessment of options to support the selection of preferred solutions that meet defined performance objectives over a 25-year design horizon.
The program encompasses both the development of the Masterplans and the delivery of associated capital works, requiring strong program governance, risk management and coordination across planning, design and construction phases.
You will lead programs from early planning through to construction and handover, ensuring they are delivered safely, on time, within budget and to the highest technical, environmental and regulatory standards. This role is ideal for a senior program or construction leader who thrives in complex, regulated environments and enjoys working collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams, contractors, regulators and community stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities:
As our Program Manager, you'll be accountable for:
1. Lead the end-to-end delivery of major infrastructure programs, including treatment plants, pipelines, pump stations and long-term construction contracts
2. Develop and implement procurement and delivery strategies that achieve best value for Coliban Water
3. Act as Superintendent or Superintendent's Representative for a broad range of construction contracts
4. Ensure all projects comply with safety, environmental, regulatory, quality and technical standards
5. Manage program and project budgets, risks, schedules and reporting
6. Lead and mentor a team of up to six project professionals
7. Build strong relationships with contractors, consultants, BOOT partners, regulators and government agencies
8. Drive continuous improvement through lessons learned, performance reviews and innovation
What you'll bring:
You are a confident and credible infrastructure leader with the ability to manage complex, multi-year construction programs in a high-accountability environment.
You will have:
9. At least 10 years' experience delivering large construction and infrastructure programs
10. A Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Construction Management (post-graduate qualifications in Project or Construction Management highly regarded)
11. Strong experience with wastewater, recycled water and treatment plant infrastructure
12. Proven ability to lead and motivate high-performing technical teams
13. Sound knowledge of Victorian construction standards, safety and environmental regulations
14. Exceptional stakeholder engagement, commercial and negotiation skills
15. A results-driven, practical and solutions-focused mindset
Sound like you? We'd love to hear from you.
Learn more in the position description
Salary:
The salary and conditions for this position will be as per the Coliban Water Enterprise Agreement 2021 Band 6 $142,905 to $169,417 plus super salary range will be offered to the successful candidate commensurate with their skills and experience.
Enquiries:
For further information please contact Bidita Rezwana on or via email at
To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter by 24 February 2026.
Why join us?
At Coliban Water our people are on a mission to create a better life for our customers and communities – now and tomorrow.
We love what we do and our location in the centre of a region that takes in 49 towns from Trentham to Echuca.
Our commitment to inclusion means you'll feel at home here no matter who you are, who you love, or what you stand for. As part of the team you receive a monthly accrued day off, time off over Christmas, the flexibility to shape your work to suit your lifestyle, and generous parental, carer and workplace study leave policies.
At Coliban Water we balance a small team rhythm with the reach and resources of one of the largest Victorian regional urban water corporations.
What are you waiting for? We'd love you to join us.
Applicants will need to successfully complete all core training requirements in the expected timeframes and may be required to undertake a Police Check, Working with Children Check, Pre-Employment Medicals or Psychometric testing where applicable. Applicants may also be required to produce evidence of their Right to Work in Australia.
We welcome applications from individuals of all abilities. We are committed to creating an accessible and inclusive workplace for everyone, including people with disabilities and diverse abilities. If you need any support during the application process or would like to discuss interview adjustments, please contact Bidita Rezwana.
Please indicate any adjustments (administrative, environmental, or procedural) you may need to effectively participate in the recruitment process and/or carry out the requirements of the role you are applying for.
Please note that applicants may be contacted prior to the closing date.